In trying to resolve brake issues for my 2002 Cavalier, I have spoken to many owners of Cavalier and Sunfires and most tell me they too have the same brake problem as I do. I have changed both drums twice yet the noise comes back after a week or so. The noise sounds like a grinding, thumping noise. This noise is more noticible after heavy persistent braking. It only makes this grinding, thumping noise when the brakes are applied and the noise is more concentrated on the right side. My mechanic is at a loss and can't explain it, he suggests changing the right drum again, it's still under warranty. I am thinking of changing the shoes as well, but my parts guy says it won't make a difference. Has anyone experienced this and if anyone has, what was the remedy?
Thanks


2002 Cavalier

Are the shoes installed with the primary shoe in the front?

My issues are they come out of adjustment too often for me in my winter beater Z. But I know about the noise sounds like a grinding too. My mechanic is at a loss too. Now my summer car is a 99 sunfire with 124 000 kms and the rear drums haven't been off yet, meaning haven't heard anything from the back and hasn't come out of adjustment and still stops like a new car.

Proud member since 99

I had terrible problems with grinding and locking up from the rears on mine. I installed some Delco shoes and haven't had a problem since. Both Bendix and Oreilly house shoes did the same thing. My problems started after doing a complete brake job, including Bendix shoes and drums and all new hardware.




2.2 97 Cavalier......the "Crapalier"